Import Export

Import Export

Ever wondered about doing an import export business in the UK? Running an import export business can be a challenging prospect, but with the proper import and export licenses, one can easily move any product around the world. In the modern world, moving products from one country to another is a highly regulated practice, and the proper export documentation must be acquired for each item. Depending on the nature of the product, different licenses will be required upon entry into the terminal country.

Sometimes coordinating shipments can be very difficult for those running an import export business. Freight forwarders are companies that handle the movement of shipments, or act as shipment intermediaries, and can be invaluable for any import export business. Freight forwarders may also assist import export businesses with their paper work, invoicing, or shipment declarations. Proper paperwork is a must to avoid fines, fees, or excess import duties. Of course, the owner of any import export business will be required to pay some import duties, and knowing when and how much to pay is integral to the success of and product movement operation.

In the UK some goods are considered controlled materials and require specific licenses for import or export. Import export businesses regularly apply for these licenses, which can be had quickly and easily if one knows the processes. Some controlled items, such as firearms, medication, and alcohol are regulated specially, and cannot be moved except with very specific export documentation. Other goods, such as foodstuffs and clothing, can be moved more simply, but require some quality testing upon importation.

Temporary licenses are available for those import export businesses looking to move items seasonally or in special circumstances; for example, taking sample items, scientific materials, historical objects, or artwork to an exhibition. Knowing the laws in the UK and around the world is the first step in owning a successful import export business.